Nigerian Correctional Service
Addressing the issue of overcrowding in custodial centers nationwide, the Nigerian Correctional Service is implementing various strategies, according to its spokesman, Abubakar Umar.
Umar, speaking in Abuja, mentioned that one approach involves the construction of large custodial facilities in each of the six geopolitical zones in the country.
“Currently, we are building mega custodial centers with a capacity of 3000 inmates in each of the six geopolitical zones,” he stated.
“The facility in the North-West zone has already been opened and is operational. The others will follow shortly,” he added.
Another initiative is the adoption of non-custodial measures for offenders convicted of less serious crimes, eliminating the need for imprisonment.
“Under this measure, offenders fulfil their punishment within the community under the supervision of non-custodial officers,” Umar explained.
To reduce overcrowding, the NCoS is enhancing cooperation with the judiciary and stakeholders for regular jail deliveries, providing clemency, and facilitating bail processes,” he mentioned.
“These efforts aim to decongest our facilities and create a conducive environment for effective reformation and rehabilitation,” he emphasized.
Umar highlighted the upscaling of reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs following the enactment of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019.
The service offers various vocational training workshops and skill acquisition centers for inmates, focusing on education by partnering with the National Open University of Nigeria.
“Our custodial centers function as educational hubs where inmates can continue their studies while serving their sentences,” Umar noted.
Additionally, discharged inmates who have completed reformation programs in different skills and vocations receive starter packs for a fresh start,” he concluded.
